Astragalus -- Immune Booster

Astragalus

aka Huang qi

astragalus membranaceus

capsule/extract/bulk

root

Summary
System Affected	immune, energizer, circulation, hypertension, weight loss
Properties	Increses energy reserves, especially in legs and arms. Keeps body warm. Immune system; infections; myasthenia gravis; cardiotonic;peripheral vascular disease; whole body tonic; age and stress resistance; weight loss; asthma; hay fever
Toxicity	none

One of the most important ancient Chinese medicinal herb used to increase energy, resistance to disease (by helping to activate the body's natural immune system) and to treat ailments such as pneumonia, diabetes, heart disease and hypertension (high blood pressure).

It has a warming influence on the body and a tonic effect on many of the body's organs. It tonifies the spleen, especially in cases of fatigue. Boosts and tonifies qi (chi). Astragalus is a diuretic that can help you get rid of excess water weight. Lowers blood pressure and blood sugar and improves circulation. Has beneficial effect on kidneys, liver and endocrine system.

As with most all Chinese herbs, it is usually used in combination with other herbs. Under medical supervision, Astragalus is sometimes given to patients undergoing chemotherapy.

It refreshes a lethargic immune system by inducing a substantial amount of interferon (white natural disease fighting cells) production. It's a useful long-term tonic for anyone, especially cancer patients and elderly who need extra infection protection during the winter.

According to The Illustrated Herb Encyclopedia and Herbs for Health and Healing, Astragalus is a heart tonic that helps prevent and treat arrhythmia.

In one study (Chinese Medical Journal, 1990) the herb quadrupled (from 11 to 45 percent) natural killer cell activity among people with viral myocarditis (heart inflammation). They also showed increased levels of alpha- and gamma-interferon, the body's own antiviral compounds.

Other research (American Journal of Chinese Medicine, 1992) suggests that it might reduce blood pressure, boost energy and increase sperm motility enough to overcome infertility.

In studies in China, it has been shown to reduce the incidence and shorten the course of the common cold. (Pharmacology and Applications of Chinese Materia Medica, Vol. 2, 1987).

A Newsweek (Nov 6, 2000) article states: Astragalus "boosts the activity of T cells and natural killer cells......and helps counter the immunosuppressive effects of cancer chemotherapy". An article in the journal Chemotherapy (Chemotherapy 1996 Jul-Aug;42(4):286-93) showed activation of macrophages which protected animals from infection with PTV, a viral infection similar to the hanta-virus infections. Astragalus was effective both when given before infection or within 4 and 24 hours after infection with the virus.

Recommended Dosage

Capsule: Take as directed, usually one 400mg capsule three times daily.

Extract: Take as directed, usually 0.5 to 2 ml.

Tincture: Take one teaspoon three times daily with a glass of water.